NEW Cross RFC retained a share of top spot in Devon Two North & East with a resounding 45-5 win over arch-rivals Newton Abbot Spartans.

In one of only two games played in the 11-team division – Teignmouth, Cullompton and Exeter Engineers were all unable to honour their fixtures – New Cross picked-up all five points to remain level with Crediton Quins at the top.

Although the scoreline suggests an emphatic win for New Cross, the reality was a little different.

Tim Marshall, the New Cross team manager said: “It was a competitive game and Newton came to play, and fight for everything.

“We probably weren’t as accurate as we have been recently but were able to go through the gears when it mattered and scored regularly throughout the game.

“It was a great way to finish 2024 – and there is plenty to play for in the New Year.”

Harry Sykes, Red Milford, Louie Griffiths and Josh Davey notched in the first half for New Cross. Rob Pedrick (2) and Ash Ansermoz added tries after the interval. Ryan Wotton was five from seven off the tee.